Meconium corresponds to the baby's first feces, which have a dark, greenish, thick and viscous color. The elimination of the first feces is a good indication that the baby's intestine works correctly, however when the baby is born after 40 weeks of gestation, there is a high risk of meconium aspiration, which can lead to serious problems.
Meconium is eliminated in the first 24 hours after birth due to the stimulation of the first breastfeeding. After 3 to 4 days, a change in the color and consistency of the stool can be noted, which indicates that the intestine can perform its function correctly. If meconium is not eliminated within 24 hours, it may be indicative of intestinal obstruction or paralysis, and further tests should be done to confirm the diagnosis.
What is fetal distress
Fetal distress occurs when meconium is eliminated before delivery in amniotic fluid, which normally happens due to changes in the baby's oxygen supply through the placenta or due to complications in the umbilical cord.
The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid and the non-birth of the baby, can lead to aspiration of the fluid by the baby, which is extremely toxic. Aspiration of meconium leads to a decrease in the production of pulmonary surfactant, which is a liquid produced by the body that allows gas exchange in the lung, which can lead to inflammation of the airways and, consequently, difficulty breathing. If the baby does not breathe, there is a lack of oxygen in the brain, which can lead to irreversible damage.
How the treatment is done
Right after birth, if it is perceived that the baby cannot breathe on its own, doctors remove secretions from the mouth, nose and lungs and administer surfactant to increase the pulmonary alveoli and allow gas exchange. However, if there are brain injuries resulting from meconium inhalation, the diagnosis is only made after some time. Find out what pulmonary surfactant is and how it works.
